2016-11-08 S&O Agenda - Item 1, Attachment 1 - Annual Report 2015-16

PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA                                                 8 NOVEMBER 2016


Where flying-fox camps are located in close proximity to housing, Council may undertake
vegetation works or use deterrents such as sprinkler systems to ‘nudge’ flying-foxes further away
from residential boundaries. Other councils have also implemented a Subsidised Services
Program providing vehicle and clothesline covers and free access to water pressure cleaners to
residents in high conflict areas.

2.   Subsidised Services Initiative
In 2015/2016, Eurobodella Shire Council implemented a subsidised services program for 740
eligible properties, offering covers for cars, caravans, boats and clotheslines, removal of exotic
Cocos Palms, air fresheners for houses and cars, doormats for local businesses and free access
to high pressure water cleaners. Out of the 740 eligible properties, currently under 200 properties
have subscribed to the services. The Natural Resource Manager has reported a large increase in
community tolerance for the flying-fox colony.
Due to the success of the Eurobodella model in mitigating conflict issues, a public engagement
program was undertaken on Sunday 16 October 2016. This survey aimed to determine the
interest of Noosa Shire residents in the proposed subsidised services and to gain feedback on
their main issues if any, with flying foxes in the highest conflict areas around Wallace Park.

3.   Public Engagement
The Flying Fox Management Officer and Cr Ingrid Jackson performed face-to-face interviews
with residents of 54 households within a 75-metre radius to inform them of current management
programs underway and survey their responses to the proposed services. Those not home on
the day were provided with a copy of the Subsidised Services Initiative Survey, the current
management programs and a covering letter with contact details to return feedback.
                                     Main issues for residents




                                                    7%4% 9%1%
                                             11%
                                                                       15%
                                            3%


                                              23%
                                                                   27%




      Reduced wildlife                          Dead bodies in backyard                     Noise
      Smell                                     Droppings/Mess                              Health concerns
      No issue                                  Property Damage                             Fruit scavenging

               Figure 1 - Main flying-fox conflict issues established by residents in high conflict area




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